By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: A last minute goal from skipper Jackychand Singh took Royal Wahingdoh FC to victory over Nangkiew Irat SC in the opening match of the Shillong Premier League at the JN Stadium here on Monday.
Singh netted the lone goal of the match when the Royals were awarded a penalty in the 89 minute after RWFC right back Bowari Khongstia was brought down inside the box following some commotion in the penalty area.
The match referee, Centre Nongbri called a foul against Nangkiew’s Rudy Thangkiew and awarded the reigning champions a penalty kick.
Jackychand stepped in and calmly slotted the ball to the left of the keeper to score the winner.
With this victory, Royal Wahingdoh have earned the first three points of the league and will look to extend their winning streak.
Earlier, both teams started off cautiously and it was only in the 20th minute that a well taken Nangkiew Irat free kick forced RWFC keeper Nikhil Bernard into making a wonderful save.
Crossing over, RWFC came out with vigour and intent and Beekay Bawar was at the centre of action creating strong chances which the Royals failed to convert.
In the 55th minute a superb through ball from Beekay set Jackie free on the flank but his shot went wide of the post.
Speaking at the post match conference, Royal Wahingdoh FC’s, Carlton Chapman was quick to admit that the Premier League appeared to be getting tougher and more competitive by the year.
” We are yet to play our full strength team that includes the likes of Mala, Seitya and Sena. Our junior players did well today. All in all, I’m happy with the performance,” Chapman said.
Nangkiew Irat SC’s coach, Lekini Suting, however, said that his team’s midfield and forward lineup needed improvement. “It’s possibly because this was our first match of the tournament,” he added.
